Rossendale Borough Council has stated that it is seeing growing benefits from sport and physical activity in line with Sport England’s own findings in the latest Social Value Report.
Rossendale has seen the borough’s social value increasing from £105,000 in 2022/23 to £123,000 in 2023/24.
The report, which measures the economic and social return generated through improved wellbeing, stronger communities and reduced pressure on public services, highlights the positive impact of increased activity levels. Nationally, community sport and physical activity generated £122.9 billion in social value last year, with a return of £4.38 for every £1 invested.
Rossendale’s year-on-year growth reflects rising engagement in community programmes, local clubs and grassroots activity - all key priorities within Rossendale Borough Council’s physical activity and sport strategy, An Active Valley. The strategy aims to support residents to be more active, reduce inequalities in participation and strengthen the role of physical activity in improving health and wellbeing.
The national data also highlights the significant opportunity in supporting older adults, people with long-term health conditions and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds to be more active. Sport England estimates that more than £15 billion of additional social value could be created nationally if activity levels increased within these groups.
Councillor Liz McInnes, Lead Member Health and Wellbeing said: “These results show the real and measurable impact that being active has on people’s lives here in Rossendale. As a council, we are committed to making Rossendale an Active Valley — a place where everyone, regardless of age, background or ability, has the opportunity to move more. The rise in social value is a clear sign that our approach is working, and we will continue to support local clubs, community organisations and residents to build on this momentum.”
Sport England added that their social value model “enables us to confidently and unequivocally state the social benefits that sport and physical activity contribute to our nation”, underlining the importance of continued investment and partnership working.